Learner drivers will be allowed on Britain's motorways from next year, the Government has announced.

But novice motorists will only be allowed on motorways for lessons with an approved driving instructor in a dual-control car.

Transport Secretary Chris Grayling announced the change in the law, designed to provide a broader range of real life experiences and better prepare learners for independent driving when they pass their test.

Mr Grayling said: "The UK has some of safest roads in the world and we want to make them even safer.

"Younger drivers are up to seven times more likely to be killed or seriously injured compared with drivers over 25 and lack of experience is an important factor.

"Allowing learners to drive on motorways in a supportive environment will help them develop a practical understanding of how to use motorways safely before driving independently."

Heavy traffic on the M1 near Derby

The Department for Transport consulted on the measure earlier this year and received "wide support" from learner drivers and driving instructors.

Learners are currently not allowed on motorways until they have passed their test.

The Government hopes the new legislation will be passed by Parliament next year.

RAC road safety spokesman Pete Williams said some drivers find it "daunting" to use motorways for the first time.

"Giving learners the option to gain valuable experience on our fastest and busiest roads should further improve safety and enhance the confidence of new drivers," he said.

Its director of campaigns, Jason Wakeford, said: "Rather than allowing learner drivers on the motorway, there should instead be a requirement for all newly qualified drivers to receive mandatory lessons, including on the motorway, once they've passed their test.

"There needs to be much wider reform to the learning-to-drive system, including a minimum learning period and restrictions for newly-qualified drivers, such as a late night curfew."

And Amanda Stretton, Confused.com motoring editor and former racing driver, said the majority of people wanted motorway driving to be added to the driving test.

Read More

She added: “Allowing learner drivers to practise on motorways is something that the public and approved driving instructors have long been asking for.

“It means that less-experienced drivers will learn how to use motorways safely before they get their licence.

“We investigated the December 2017 UK Driving Test changes when they were first announced earlier this year and discovered that almost three quarters (73%) of people polled thought that motorway testing should be added to the test.

“While driving on the motorway still won’t officially be tested, allowing learner drivers to practise could be a significant step to improving the standard of driving in the UK - and see it added in the future.”